T-Mobile adds security measure to hot spots

T-Mobile USA announced Tuesday it is adding the 802.1x security standard throughout its hot-spot network--a feat that should be finished by the second quarter of next year. A hot spot is a public area where a wireless network has been installed so resources, such as a broadband connection, can be shared using Wi-Fi gear. The security standard ensures that data sent between an access point and Wi-Fi device isn't intercepted.

Security is one of the chief concerns of customers, according to T-Mobile USA. The standard is incorporated in its Connection Manager software, which is needed to securely connect to its hot spots. The software is distributed on CD and can be downloaded from the company's Web site. T-Mobile USA said it is has installed about 8,300 hot spots. It aims to have 10,000 hot spots installed worldwide by the end of the year.